Admissions Info

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Venture for America Fellow and joining the movement to build businesses and create jobs throughout the country.

Applications to join the Class of 2013 are now closed. For our 2014 Fellowship (beginning in June 2014), you must apply before one of the following deadlines: October 7, 2013; December 2, 2013; and February 17, 2014.

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

VFA Fellows will be selected through an application process that will include an online application, multiple interviews, case studies, and behavioral exercises. The goal will be to screen candidates for qualities that distinguish successful entrepreneurs and start-up leaders, including:

Intellect and Independent Thinking

Determination/Ability to Surmount Obstacles/Resourcefulness

Technical Aptitude and/or the Ability to Develop and Learn New Skills

Leadership Ability/Initiative

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Purpose-Driven/Character

Our application process is designed to assess candidates’ potential to add value to an early-stage company. While there are certain general qualities that speak to this potential (i.e., structured thinking, consistently high-level work product), there is no one background or profile that represents an “ideal” VFA Fellow. Each may have a unique record of success and achievement.

Some candidates demonstrate their potential through rigorous coursework and leadership in extracurricular activities, some have impressive internship experiences, some are high-level athletes, and still others have been company founders themselves. To make a strong case for your candidacy, make sure your application reflects that you: learn and adapt quickly, set high standards for your work, possess a passion for entrepreneurship, and exhibit an unparalleled work ethic.

All VFA applicants, please read a message from Andrew Yang, founder of Venture for America,here!

HOW TO APPLY

All applicants must submit our online application by one of the deadlines below.
Application Deadlines:

SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants complete an online application where they submit a resume, transcript, academic information, and short essays

Selected applicants have a 30-minute phone interview with a Venture for America representative and a short video interview through TaketheInterview.com

The most promising applicants attend a full-day, in-person interview, which includes group problem solving activities and one-on-one interviews

APPLICATION PREREQUISITES

Bachelor’s Degree

You must have received your bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university before the start of the fellowship orientation program. You also must have received a high school diploma or high school equivalency certificate.

3.0 Minimum Cumulative GPA

You must have a cumulative undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.00 scale (as measured by the institution awarding your degree) at the time we receive your application, as well as at the time of graduation. Graduate school GPAs should not be used or averaged in with undergraduate GPAs. If you are accepted into Venture for America and your final GPA falls below a 3.0, you will forego your position with Venture for America. Applicants must also pass any coursework indicated on their transcript as “in progress” at the time of their interview.

US Citizenship or National/Permanent Resident Status

Due to the hiring restrictions of many of our partner companies, Venture for America may only accept US citizens, nationals, or legal permanent residents for admission into the program. Individuals who are in the United States under a student, work, or tourist visa are not eligible to become Venture for America fellows. Similarly, individuals who have refugee status but nothing indicating permanent resident alien status are not eligible to become Venture for America Fellows.

APPLICANT DECLARATION

Venture for America is looking for individuals who embody our organization’s values and standards. Before submitting the application, all applicants should read and agree to the following statements:

I see my professional pursuits and my career as a moral choice that indicates my values.

I appreciate those who assume personal risks in order to build a company or pursue a common good.

I believe that actions are the proper measure of one’s accomplishments.

I believe that creating opportunities for myself and others is an important aspect of professional success.

I believe that one’s professional conduct is a reflection of personal character, and will always strive to act accordingly.

Questions? Try reading over the FAQs. Still have questions? Feel free to contact us.